Jhene Aiko interview with HardKnockTV

Exclusive in-depth interview with Jhene Aiko. In part 2 Jhene talks to Nick Huff Barili about the cathartic release of recording and performing her new album Souled Out, which deals with such personal matters as heartbreak and the passing of her brother from cancer. Jhene states that connecting with people is what makes things bearable stating: “It just makes for an easier existence. I’ve never been afraid to just talk about what I’m going through and be honest…When I complete the song that means that I have an understanding of whatever it is I’m talking about in that that song whether it be about heartbreak or a life lesson or whatever. The fact that I was able to turn it into a song for me, that’s when I’m over it or I feel good about it.” Jhene states that reading books by Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh and getting lost in movies like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind help her deal with heartbreak. As the interview continues Jhene lets us into her writing process, inspirations and working in the studio with her daughter Namiko for her new album. In particular Jhene walks us through the making of two stand out tracks from Souled Out: Promises and W.A.Y.S.. Jhene gives us insight as to how a tweet from her brother Miyagi, which stated “Why Aren’t You Smiling?” inspired the song. Part 2 of our interview with Jhene ends with her describing how everyone’s favorite mentor No ID helped shape the sound of Souled Out. Stay tuned Friday for our final segment with Jhene Aiko.